Community Corner
Mayor is Encouraging City Council to Go Green
Minnesota GreenSteps Cities program will help Richfield achieve their environmental sustainability goals.
Mayor Debbie Goettel is requesting a study session to discuss participation in the Minnesota GreenSteps Cities program. Launched in June 2010, Minnesota GreenSteps Cities is a voluntary challenge, assistance and recognition program to help cities achieve their sustainability goals. It is sponsored by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
There are three levels of participation in GreenSteps Cities, which Richfield can attain through the implementation of various best-practice initiatives. All of the actions are tailored to Minnesota cities and concern cost savings and energy use reduction while encouraging innovation.
Goetell said she’s been very active in promoting the green movement in Richfield, acting as the Regional Council of Mayors focusing on environmental sustainability. Though she didn’t put the city of the GreenSteps pilot program, she said she’s been very proactive on the issue from the beginning as it ultimately benefits Richfield as a whole.
“We think it’s a real selling point for the community,” she said.
Jim Topitzhofer, Recreation Services Director for Richfield, will deliver a short presentation at Tuesday’s City Council meeting. A member of Greenstep Cities staff will also be attending the study session to answer additional questions about the program.
